Introduction

Intubation of the rabbit is challenging because it difficult to directly visualize the tracheal opening in all but the largest individuals. Rabbits have a long, narrow oral cavity and the larynx, which sits on a ventral slope, is prone to spasm. The rabbit mouth does not open very wide at all, and it also has a relatively large tongue paired with large incisors and cheek teeth.

Video

Video produced by Dr. M. Scott Echols and narrated by Dr. Natalie Antinoff.

Equipment needed

Endoscope tube 2.0-4.0 mm

Stethoscope

Roll gauze

Water-soluble sterile lubricant

Topical anesthetic in gel, solution, or spray form

Drugs for pre-medication and/or induction are extremely helpful

To visualize the airway:

Stylet such as a modified polypropylene catheter or a 2.7-mm rigid laparoscope

Potential complication

Difficult intubation can potentially cause tracheal inflammation that can lead to asphyxiation and death. To minimize the risk of iatrogenic damage, limit intubation attempts to two or three tries then maintain the rabbit on a tightly fitting facemask. Since rabbits are obligate nasal breathers the mask may be fitted over only the nose when necessary.

Blind endotracheal intubation in the rabbit

Blind intubation requires patience and careful positioning.

Place the rabbit in ventral recumbency.

Hyperextend the head and neck to allow the larynx and trachea to line up with the oral cavity (Fig 1).